Before the invention of modern toothbrushes, people in the early twentieth century used animal hair, especially boar’s hair, bristles as toothbrushes. They even chewed sticks for cleaning and whitening their teeth. But today, with evolving time and technology, we have a plethora of toothbrush options and it’s difficult to distinguish which is the best one for brushing.
Many people have the misconception that hard-bristled toothbrushes are better for cleaning their teeth. They think that harsh scrubbing will help to whiten their teeth. However, hard-bristled toothbrushes can be harmful as it has the added risk of damaging the gums, root surfaces, and erodes the protective layer of tooth enamel. That is why the Doctors and Hygienists at Adams Dental have suggested that you consider the following tips when choosing a toothbrush for effective brushing and to give you a healthy smile:
- Always choose a toothbrush with soft bristles for better protection of your teeth especially if they are sensitive, as hard-bristled toothbrushes cause your protective enamel to be worn away, and can cause damage to gum tissue.
- The general size of a toothbrush head for most adults is about 1” long and ½” wide. Although larger toothbrush heads are available, it’s best to select one that fits into your mouth easily, so that you can access all surfaces of your teeth.
- Select a toothbrush with a long handle so it’s easier to hold in your hand.
- It’s better to choose a toothbrush which has tongue scraper so that you can scrub the back of your tongue, helping to combat the bad breath associated with odour-causing bacteria and dead cells.
- If possible, choose a powered toothbrush instead of a normal toothbrush for enhanced performance and ease of cleaning.
- As for children, select a toothbrush with a smaller head, soft bristles, and large handle.
Finally, select a toothbrush that has gone through rigorous quality control testing for cleaning effectiveness and safety. If you’re unsure about which toothbrush to use, consult with one of our dental experts, Dr Michael Adams or Dr Morgan Prpic. Remember, dental disease is a major risk factor in the development of other serious health conditions, including heart disease and diabetes.
Improve your health and brighten your smile with the team at Adams Dental, your Adelaide Dental Care. Give us a call now on 08 8212 6335.